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Report: Arsenal in talks to sign Willian after winger rejects Chelsea offer

DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS / AFP / Getty

Willian might not be going far to find work if he leaves Chelsea.

The Brazilian winger appears to be close to departing Chelsea after rejecting a two-year offer from the Blues while holding out for a three-year deal, according to Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian.

Although Chelsea manager Frank Lampard wants to re-sign Willian, the club's board won't extend an offer beyond two years to the 31-year-old, who missed Saturday's FA Cup final loss to Arsenal due to an Achilles injury.

It's understood Willian will announce his plans to leave after Chelsea's Champions League campaign ends this month, and Arsenal are keen to sign him as a free agent, The Guardian's Fabrizio Romano reports.

Arsenal have opened talks with WIllian's representatives to discuss the possibility of the Brazilian international moving from west London to the north part of town on a free contract.

Willian's agent Kia Joorabchian said last week there's been interest from at least five clubs. He's reportedly received offers from two teams in England, two in Europe, and one from a Major League Soccer club.

Barcelona have been linked with Willian previously, but a move to the Camp Nou is reportedly unlikely. David Beckham's Inter Miami is another possible landing spot.

But the Gunners may hold the upper hand, as it's understood Willian is settled in London and would prefer to remain in the English capital.

Willian, who has played a starring role for Chelsea since joining the Blues in 2013, recorded nine goals and seven assists in 36 Premier League appearances last term.

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